Memorial Day isn’t just another long weekend; it’s a time to pause, reflect, and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. It’s also an opportunity to connect with our communities and honor their memory through various events and activities. So, are you looking for ways to commemorate Memorial Day this year? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with a guide to events on the Central Coast and some creative ideas to honor our fallen heroes.
Central Coast Memorial Day Events: A Roundup
This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26, 2025, and the Central Coast is buzzing with activities planned to honor those who died in service to the United States Armed Forces. Local communities are pulling out all the stops to ensure this day is filled with remembrance and respect. Here’s a glimpse of what’s happening:
Santa Cruz County
Capitola: Get ready to catch some waves! The Veteran Surf Alliance will host its 7th annual event on Monday, offering a unique way to honor veterans through the healing power of the ocean.
Felton: Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 24! The Felton community is hosting its 35th annual Felton Remembers Memorial Day weekend parade. Road closures along Highway 9 will begin at 9:30 a.m., so plan your route accordingly. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. at Henry Cowell State Park, ending at Covered Bridge Park on Graham Hill Road. It’s a family-friendly event honoring military service, followed by the Covered Bridge Festival at Covered Bridge Park. What could be better than a parade and a festival on a sunny Saturday?
Monterey County
Castroville: A solemn Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at The Castroville Public Cemetery, starting at 9 a.m. Names will be read aloud, followed by a three-volley salute and the playing of Taps. A beautiful and poignant way to start the day.
Salinas: The Salinas community is hosting not one, but two events! The first takes place at 11 a.m. at Central Park, where a new statue will be unveiled, paying tribute to a fallen Army Ranger from the Central Coast. The second event is set for 2 p.m. at the Police Activities League building, where five new memorial highway signs honoring fallen service members from Monterey County will be unveiled. It’s a day of remembrance and honoring local heroes.
Seaside: The city of Seaside will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at the California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery, starting at 11 a.m. A respectful and meaningful event to pay tribute to those laid to rest.
Monterey: Enjoy a free concert by the Monterey Symphony on Monday! The performance begins at 2 p.m. and will open with a tribute to the Armed Forces, including a medley of songs representing all military branches. If you can’t make it in person, the event will be streamed live online. Talk about a moving tribute!
San Benito County
Hollister: VFW Post 9242 is pulling out all the stops with a series of events throughout the Memorial Day weekend. On May 24 at 10 a.m., flags will be placed at every veterans grave at both the IOOF and Calvary cemeteries. On May 25 at 9 a.m., flags will be placed at the entrances of both cemeteries. On Memorial Day itself, ceremonies will be held at the IOOF Cemetery at 9 a.m., at the Calvary Cemetery at 10 a.m., and at the Veterans Memorial Building at 11 a.m. A truly comprehensive tribute to the fallen.
More Than Just a Day Off: Understanding the Significance of Memorial Day
Memorial Day isn’t just the unofficial kickoff to summer; it’s a federal holiday dedicated to remembering and honoring those who died while serving in the U.S. military. Established in 1868, it’s a day for families, friends, and communities to pay tribute to fallen service members. Over 150 national cemeteries, including Arlington National Cemetery and Gettysburg National Cemetery, will be adorned with thousands of American flags. It’s a powerful visual reminder of the sacrifices made.
While Armed Forces Day celebrates current military members and Veterans Day honors all veterans, Memorial Day is specifically for those who died in service. It’s generally discouraged to wish people a “Happy Memorial Day” due to its somber nature. What do you think? Should we be more mindful of the tone we use on this day?
Memorial Day has roots in the Southern tradition of Decoration Day, where families decorated the graves of their ancestors with flowers. In 1868, Grand Army of the Republic General John A. Logan declared May 30 to be Memorial Day, calling on the GAR to make it an annual occurrence. Though the date’s origins are debated, some believe it was chosen because flowers were optimally in bloom for decorating graves. Interesting, right?
Memorial Day wasn’t widely observed nationally until after World War II and wasn’t officially named until 1967. In 1968, Congress moved Memorial Day to the last Monday in May, taking effect federally in 1971. But did you know some advocate for returning the holiday to May 30 to preserve its original intent?
Local Central Coast News Snippets
On the Central Coast, Memorial Day isn’t just a date on the calendar; it’s a time for reflection, remembrance, and community engagement. Let’s take a quick peek at some of the highlights from around the area.
Atascadero, Cambria, and San Luis Obispo
In Atascadero, the Veterans Memorial Foundation is holding its annual ceremony at 11 A.M. Meanwhile, the Cambria American Legion is hosting a memorial at the Veterans Hall. And, in San Luis Obispo, the holiday will be honored with an event at the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum. A great way to pay your respects locally.
Discounts and Appreciation
May is Military Appreciation Month! Veterans and active-duty service members can snag a variety of discounts across the Central Coast. Retailers like 7-Eleven are offering at least 15 cents off per gallon for verified members through the end of May. Rack Room Shoes is offering 10% off every Tuesday and 20% off on Memorial Day. Home Depot also honors military personnel with 10% off in-store purchases year-round. Who doesn’t love a good discount?
Travel and Accommodation Deals
For those looking to travel, hotels like the Madonna Inn and Sycamore Mineral Springs in San Luis Obispo offer military room discounts. And, if you’re heading outdoors, California State Parks are offering free admission today and a free pass program for eligible veterans that includes free camping and day use at over 100 parks. Time to plan a staycation?
Gas Prices and Beach Safety
Although gas prices have dipped slightly compared to last year, they’re still high for many drivers. AAA reports the average price for a gallon of regular gas in San Luis Obispo County is about $5.10, down from $5.33 a year ago. In Santa Barbara County, the average price is currently $4.71, compared to $5.13 this time last year. Every little bit helps, right?
As Memorial Day weekend draws crowds to Pismo Beach, safety is top of mind for fire officials. The Pismo Beach Fire Department has staffed lifeguards seven days a week along 1.75 miles of beach, with coverage from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. through the season. Remember to swim near lifeguard towers and watch for flag colors indicating conditions. Stay safe and have fun!
Central Coast Memorial Day Events: More Fun Things To Do!
West Coast Kustoms Crusin Nationals (May 23rd, 24th, and 25th – Santa Maria Fairpark): Get ready for the 44th annual West Coast Kustoms Crusin Nationals in Santa Maria! The Santa Maria Fairpark will host model cars from across the country. Friday features the Santa Maria City Cruise from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, the event moves into the Fairpark from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. Car enthusiasts, this one’s for you!
I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival (May 24th, 25th and 26th – Santa Barbara Mission): Starting Saturday, Old Mission Plaza in Santa Barbara will transform into a mosaic of 150 large-scale pastel street paintings for the 39th annual I Madonnari Italian street painting festival. Proceeds from the festival will go to the Children’s Creative Project, a nonprofit arts education program. Art, music, and giving back—what’s not to love?
Art in the Park (May 24th, 25th, and 26th – Morro Bay Park): The first of three Art in the Park festivals is this weekend in Morro Bay. Over 125 independent artists and craft workers will be at the Morro Bay Park for three days of fun! Booths will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. Monday. A perfect spot to find unique treasures.
Paso Robles Spring Book Sale (Friday, May 23rd and Saturday, May 24th – Paso Robles Library): Book lovers, rejoice! This weekend, the Paso Robles Spring Book Sale returns for two days of deals and a celebration of literature. Grab books, magazines, music, audiobooks, and more for just $1.50 per inch when all stacked up. Happy reading!
Avila Beach Party (May 24th, 25th, and 26th – Mulligans at the Avila Beach Golf Resort): If you’re in the mood for a party this weekend, the Avila Beach Golf Course is hosting a free Beach Party! Enjoy live music, lawn games, food specials, and more. Let the good times roll!
Movie Night For Our Parks (Friday, May 23rd – Fremont Theatre, San Luis Obispo): Join the Central Coast State Parks Association for a screening of “Out There: A National Parks Story.” Before the film, shop park experiences and stick around after the film for a discussion panel of filmmakers. Proceeds will support the association’s mission of public awareness and stewardship. A night at the movies for a good cause.
Silent Book Club (Sunday, May 25th – Meadow Park, San Luis Obispo): Grab your book and head to Meadow Park for a picnic with the San Luis Obispo not-so-silent book club. Beginning at 5 p.m., attendees can chat, read, and have fun with local literature enthusiasts. Plus, check out the SLO Book Bike pop-up book shop while there. A book club for introverts and extroverts alike!
< h2>Creative Hobbies to Honor the Fallen: DIY Memorial Day Projects
Beyond attending events, why not engage in creative hobbies that honor the fallen? Here are a few ideas to spark your imagination:
- DIY Memorial Wreaths: Craft a wreath using natural materials and patriotic colors. This can be a beautiful addition to your home or a thoughtful gift for a local veterans’ organization.
- Patriotic Quilts: Create a quilt featuring stars, stripes, or military symbols. Quilts can be donated to veterans’ homes or given to families of fallen service members.
- Personalized Memory Boxes: Gather photos, letters, and mementos of loved ones who served and create a personalized memory box. This is a heartfelt way to preserve their legacy.
- Handmade Cards and Letters: Write cards and letters to veterans or active-duty service members, expressing gratitude for their service. These simple gestures can have a profound impact.
- Memorial Garden: Plant a garden with flowers and plants that symbolize remembrance and gratitude. Include a small plaque or stone with the name of a fallen service member.
Conclusion: Honoring the Fallen, Celebrating Community
Memorial Day is more than just a holiday; it’s a time to remember, honor, and connect. Whether you attend a local parade, engage in a creative hobby, or simply take a moment of silence, let’s all strive to keep the spirit of Memorial Day alive. How will you be honoring our fallen heroes this year?
Reflecting at Home: Thoughtful Ways to Observe Memorial Day
Can’t make it to a parade or ceremony? No problem! There are plenty of meaningful ways to observe Memorial Day from the comfort of your own home. It’s about taking the time to reflect and remember.
Virtual Tours and Memorial Services
Many national cemeteries and memorials offer virtual tours. Take a virtual walk through Arlington National Cemetery or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It’s a powerful way to connect with the history and significance of the day. Numerous organizations will also be streaming memorial services online. Check local listings or search online for virtual events.
Moment of Remembrance
The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a moment of silence to honor the fallen. It’s a simple yet profound act of unity and respect.
Educational Activities for Kids
Use Memorial Day as an opportunity to educate children about the importance of the holiday. Read books about military history, watch documentaries, or create art projects that honor veterans. Helping kids understand the significance of the day is a powerful way to keep the memory alive.
Support Veterans’ Organizations
Consider making a donation to a veterans’ organization. Many organizations provide vital services to veterans and their families. Supporting these organizations is a tangible way to show your appreciation for their service and sacrifice. You can also volunteer your time to help veterans in your community.
Delicious Delights: Memorial Day Recipes to Share
Gathering with loved ones is a classic Memorial Day tradition. Why not make the occasion even more special with some delicious, patriotic-themed recipes? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Red, White, and Blue Desserts
Wow your guests with stunning red, white, and blue desserts. Think strawberry shortcake, blueberry pie, or a flag-themed cake. Get creative with food coloring and fruit arrangements to create visually appealing and tasty treats.
Backyard BBQ Classics
Fire up the grill and enjoy classic BBQ fare like burgers, hot dogs, and ribs. Don’t forget the sides! Potato salad, coleslaw, and corn on the cob are perfect accompaniments to a Memorial Day feast. Experiment with different marinades and spice rubs to take your BBQ to the next level.
Refreshing Drinks
Quench your thirst with refreshing drinks like lemonade, iced tea, or a signature cocktail. Consider making a patriotic punch with red, white, and blue layers. Add some fruit garnishes for a festive touch.
Memorial Day Picnic
Pack a picnic basket and head to a local park or beach for a relaxing Memorial Day meal. Sandwiches, salads, and fruit are easy to transport and enjoy outdoors. Don’t forget the blankets and sunscreen!
Staying Safe This Memorial Day Weekend: A Quick Checklist
As you enjoy the Memorial Day weekend, remember to prioritize safety. Whether you’re traveling, grilling, or spending time outdoors, here’s a quick checklist to help you stay safe:
- Travel Safely: If you’re driving, make sure your vehicle is in good condition and plan your route in advance. Avoid distractions and take breaks to prevent fatigue.
- Grill Responsibly: Keep a safe distance between the grill and flammable materials. Never leave a grill unattended and always supervise children and pets.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re spending time outdoors in the sun.
- Protect Your Skin: Apply sunscreen regularly and wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses.
- Be Aware of Water Safety: If you’re swimming, swim near lifeguard towers and follow posted safety guidelines. Never swim alone and be aware of rip currents.
- Practice Food Safety: Keep perishable foods refrigerated and avoid leaving food out in the sun for extended periods.
Memorial Day FAQs
What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to remembering and honoring those who died while serving in the U.S. military.
When is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. In 2025, it falls on May 26.
How is Memorial Day different from Veterans Day and Armed Forces Day?
Memorial Day specifically honors those who died in service, while Veterans Day honors all veterans, and Armed Forces Day celebrates current military members.
Is it appropriate to say “Happy Memorial Day”?
It is generally discouraged to wish people a “Happy Memorial Day” due to its somber nature. It’s more appropriate to offer words of remembrance or gratitude.
Remembering Our Heroes, Strengthening Our Communities
As Memorial Day approaches, let us not only enjoy the long weekend and various activities, but also pause to remember the sacrifices made by those who have served and died for our country. Whether attending a parade, participating in a ceremony, or engaging in a creative hobby, let us honor their memory and strengthen our communities in the process.
